David Macaulay author page

David Macaulay biography

David Macaulay is an author and illustrator known for his detailed books that explore architecture, engineering, and design for children and young adults. Born in England, he moved to the United States as a child. Macaulay studied at the Rhode Island School of Design, where he graduated with a degree in architecture.

Macaulay’s first book, Cathedral: The Story of Its Construction, was published in 1973. This work established his reputation for combining precise illustrations with clear explanations of complex structures. He continued to explore the built environment in subsequent titles such as City: A Story of Roman Planning and Construction (1974), Castle (1977), and Pyramid (1975). His books often use cross-sections and diagrams to reveal the inner workings of buildings and machines.

In addition to architectural subjects, Macaulay has written and illustrated books on a range of topics, including The Way Things Work (1988), which explains the principles behind everyday machines and devices. This title was later revised as The New Way Things Work (1998). Macaulay’s approach combines technical accuracy with engaging visual storytelling, making complex subjects accessible to younger readers.

David Macaulay’s work has received recognition from several organisations. He was awarded the Caldecott Medal in 1991 for Black and White. His books have also been named as American Library Association Notable Books and have received honours from the Boston Globe–Horn Book Awards.

In 2016, Macaulay published The Way Things Work Now, an updated and expanded edition of his earlier work, reflecting new developments in technology.